A nurse is caring for a client who gave birth 2 hr ago.
The nurse notes that the client's blood pressure is 60/50 mm Hg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?.
Evaluate the firmness of the uterus (fundus).
Obtain a type and crossmatch.
Administer oxytocin infusion.
Initiate oxygen therapy by nonrebreather mask.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A.
Choice A rationale:
Evaluating the firmness of the uterus (fundus) is the first action the nurse should take when a client’s blood pressure drops postpartum. A soft or “boggy” uterus can indicate uterine atony, a leading cause of postpartum hemorrhage, which can lead to hypotension.
Choice B rationale:
Obtaining a type and crossmatch is important if the client needs a blood transfusion, but it is not the first action the nurse should take.
Choice C rationale:
Administering oxytocin infusion can help contract the uterus and control bleeding, but the nurse should first assess the uterus.
Choice D rationale:
Initiating oxygen therapy can help if the client is hypoxic, but the nurse should first assess the uterus.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A.
Choice A rationale:
An internal examination could disturb the placenta and cause profound bleeding, which is a life-threatening condition for both the mother and the fetus.
Choice B rationale:
While there is always a risk of introducing infection during an internal examination, this is not the primary reason to avoid it in a client with placenta previa.
Choice C rationale:
An internal examination could potentially initiate preterm labor, but this is not the primary concern with placenta previa.
Choice D rationale:
While there is a risk of rupture of the amniotic membranes during an internal examination, this is not the primary reason to avoid it in a client with placenta previa.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice D.
Choice A rationale:
While antidepressants can be an effective treatment for postpartum depression, it is not the priority action. The priority is to ensure the safety of the mother and the baby.
Choice B rationale:
Reinforcing postpartum and newborn care discharge teaching is important, but it is not the priority action when a client is showing signs of postpartum depression.
Choice C rationale:
Assisting the family to identify prior use of positive coping skills in family crises can be helpful, but it is not the priority action when a client is showing signs of postpartum depression.
Choice D rationale:
The priority action when a client is showing signs of postpartum depression is to assess for suicidal ideation or thoughts of harming herself or her baby. This is because postpartum depression can lead to thoughts of self-harm or harm to the baby, and immediate intervention is necessary to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.
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